A light emitting diode or LED is a semiconductor device that emits visible or infrared light when charged by the electric current passing through it. The light emitted by LEDs is not very bright, and in most cases it is monochromatic and occurs in a single wavelength. While the usage of LEDs was earlier limited to cellphone displays and flashlights, the latest technologies have enabled diverse applications of the same. LED light was once demoted to the humble indicator lights used in electronic devices, but in the recent past, the technology has advanced remarkably to foray into an entirely new segment of outdoor advertising.

We live in a time when digital signage is making a rapid headway in the advertising world. The technology fosters direct interaction with potential customers, which is touted as one of the best ways to gain their attention. The innovation of outdoor LED displays has greatly contributed to this novel approach of the advertising world. According to a report recently published by Transparency Market Research, the global market for outdoor LED displays, which stood at US$4.8 bn in 2013, will reach US$12.5 bn by 2020. If the figures hold true, the outdoor LED displays market will exhibit a positive CAGR of 14.7% between 2014 and 2020.

Industry experts and veterans from the advertising world believe that in many ways digital signage has reshaped static displays into a more interactive marketing tool. Thus, the advertising industry is in favor of making outdoor LED displays the primary option for interacting with customers. Here’s a look at the intrinsic benefits of the novel technology:

Easy Wireless Connection: Wireless internet connection technology used to bring the internet to smartphones can be used to program outdoor LED displays and message centers. With easy access to the latest wireless data plans, it is practically possible to ensure high-speed and secure internet connections to outdoor LED displays anywhere – just like it is achieved in the case of smartphones or tablets.

Targets Consumers On-the-Go - In terms of dynamic content, the technology has made it simpler to segregate the demographics of targeted consumers and reach them in the most uncomplicated way. The advertising campaigns displayed on digital signage are particularly designed for passing traffic, keeping in mind dynamic factors such as inventory fluctuations, recent events on the community calendar, and weather conditions. Digital signage, therefore, helps brands target consumers when they are on the go.

Enables Prompt Communication of Updates: Modern consumers prefer immediacy and outdoor LED displays and signs have emerged as the perfect medium to communicate the latest updates and fresh content. With wireless connectivity, it could even follow unexpected last-minute occurrences. Since consumers nowadays expect faster responsiveness, outdoor LED displays are a hand-in-a-glove fit for communicating the latest news on the block. Digital signage, therefore, provides a medium to brands that allows them to communicate what the customers want to know at a pace faster than their competitors.